If you want to be happy single, say goodbye to these 10 behaviors

Ever found yourself sitting alone, feeling content, only to be bombarded with questions about your single status?

Chances are, you’re completely happy being single.

Yet, some behaviors might be keeping you from fully embracing your solo journey. They might even make you feel like you’re not ‘doing single right’.

So, let’s clear the air, shall we? It’s time to shed some light on 10 behaviors that you need to kick to the curb if you want to truly relish in the joys of being single.

These are habits that may seem insignificant but could actually be holding back your happiness.

1. Seeking validation from others

Ever found yourself waiting for that ‘like’ or ‘comment’ on your latest social media post? You’re not alone.

Many of us seek validation and approval from others, a habit that often prevents us from fully enjoying our single status.

Being single means you have the freedom to be unapologetically you, without needing anyone else’s stamp of approval. It’s about acknowledging your worth and embracing your independence.

This doesn’t mean you should completely disregard opinions or feedback from others; it simply means you don’t have to rely on them to define your self-worth or happiness.

So, the next time you find yourself seeking validation from others, remember it’s not necessary.

You’re single and that’s perfectly okay.

2. Overthinking past relationships

I’ll admit it, I’ve been there. I’ve spent countless hours replaying past relationships in my mind, wondering what went wrong and why it didn’t work out.

But let me tell you something, this habit does more harm than good.

Overthinking past relationships can keep you stuck in a cycle of regret and self-blame. It prevents you from moving forward and fully enjoying your single status.

Sure, it’s important to learn from past experiences, but dwelling on them is not the way to do it.

I had to learn this the hard way. Once I let go of my past relationship baggage, I found myself feeling lighter and more content with my single life.

So, if you want to be truly happy being single, it’s time to stop overthinking past relationships. 

3. Comparing yourself to others

We’ve all been there. Scrolling through social media, looking at happy couples and feeling a pang of loneliness or envy.

But, in reality, comparison is the thief of joy.

Comparing your single status to someone else’s relationship status can lead to feelings of inadequacy and discontent. It’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is different and what works for others might not work for you.

Being single is not a race or competition. It’s a phase of life that should be savored and enjoyed at your own pace.

4. Neglecting self-care

Self-care is not just about bubble baths and spa days, it’s about prioritizing your mental and physical health. It’s about taking care of your needs and ensuring you’re at your best.

Neglecting self-care can lead to stress, burnout, and overall dissatisfaction with life.

In fact, research indicates that individuals who practice regular self-care have better mental health, increased productivity, and improved relationships.

Being single is the ideal time to develop a self-care routine that works for you. It’s the perfect opportunity to focus on your well-being and nurture your relationship with yourself.

5. Letting fear control your decisions

Life as a singleton can sometimes be scary.

The fear of being alone, the fear of not finding ‘the one’, the fear of being judged – these fears can often dictate your decisions and rob you of your happiness.

But here’s the thing – it’s okay to be afraid. It’s okay to feel uncertain. But it’s not okay to let these fears control you.

Being single is about embracing life’s uncertainties with courage and optimism. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and exploring new possibilities.

So, if you’re single and want to be happy, you must bid goodbye to letting fear control your decisions.

Embrace the uncertainty, take risks, make mistakes, learn, grow and most importantly, live. After all, happiness is not the absence of fear, but the ability to keep going despite it.

6. Forgetting to celebrate your achievements

When you’re single, it’s easy to forget to celebrate your accomplishments. Without a significant other to share in your joy, you might downplay your achievements or even brush them off.

But here’s the reality – every milestone, no matter how small, deserves a celebration.

Being single gives you the freedom to celebrate your achievements in any way you like. Whether it’s treating yourself to a nice dinner, taking a weekend trip, or simply taking a moment to pat yourself on the back, these celebrations are a testament to your hard work and dedication.

So, if you want to be happy being single, start recognizing and appreciating your own efforts. 

7. Avoiding new experiences

Sometimes, being single can make you feel like you’re missing out on shared experiences. This might even lead you to avoid trying new things altogether.

But let me tell you, avoiding new experiences is a sure-fire way to hinder your happiness.

Being single is the perfect time to explore, learn, and grow. It’s an opportunity to try new things, pick up new skills, or travel to new places – all on your own terms.

8. Ignoring your finances

One common misconception is that being single means you don’t have to worry about your finances as much as someone in a relationship. This couldn’t be further from the truth.

Financial stability plays a key role in overall happiness and satisfaction with life. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, it’s important to take control of your finances and plan for the future.

Studies show that individuals who have a handle on their finances tend to experience less stress and more happiness. They’re also better equipped to handle life’s unexpected curveballs.

If you’re single and want to be happy, it’s time to stop ignoring your finances.

Start budgeting, saving, and planning for your future. Your future self will thank you.

9. Holding onto toxic relationships

I once had a friend who was constantly negative and critical. Every interaction left me feeling drained and unhappy. It took me a while to realize that this friendship was toxic and was affecting my happiness.

Being single is about more than just being without a romantic partner. It’s also about evaluating the other relationships in your life.

Holding onto toxic relationships, whether they’re friendships or family ties, can significantly impact your happiness.

If you’re single and want to be happy, evaluate the relationships in your life.

Are they supportive and uplifting? Or do they bring you down? 

10. Not embracing your single status

The key to being happy while single lies in embracing your single status. It’s about making the most of this time to focus on you, your goals, and your happiness.

Being single is not a disadvantage, it’s an opportunity. An opportunity to grow, to explore, to learn, and to love yourself.

If you want to be happy being single, the most important behavior to say goodbye to is viewing singlehood as a problem that needs to be fixed.

Instead, view it as a stage of life that offers its own unique advantages and joys. After all, happiness comes from within, not from a relationship status.

If you want inspiration in embracing your single status, I recommend watching Justin Brown’s video below. He explains why he’s committed to staying single.

YouTube video

Did you like my article? Like me on Facebook to see more articles like this in your feed.

Picture of Tina Fey

Tina Fey

I've ridden the rails, gone off track and lost my train of thought. I'm writing for Ideapod to try and find it again. Hope you enjoy the journey with me.

Enhance your experience of Ideapod and join Tribe, our community of free thinkers and seekers.

Related articles

Most read articles

Get our articles

Ideapod news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

0:00
0:00